4 Trends to Watch in the Next 5 Years

Agriculture is constantly changing and evolving. With each new breakthrough comes new challenges and opportunities—watch these four trends as they could impact your operation in the not-to-distant future.

“The future of agriculture is potentially bright,” says Adrian Percy, Bayer head of research and development in the crop science division. He shared his thoughts on trends to watch with AgWeb at the 13^th annual Bayer AgVocacy forum in Anaheim California.

1. First, watch for digital tools to hit the market faster and in greater numbers than you see even today. “Digital tools are hitting the market very quickly and a lot are readily available,” Percy says. “Drones are pretty well developed, the technological jump will be in the sensor or the camera that is integrated and turn that information into decision technology for farmers.”
2. Plant breeding will accelerate faster as new, precise technology comes to market. “We talk about CRISPR a lot, but there are a number of different gene editing tools,” Percy says. “I see innovation in that area will continue.”
3. There will be more research on the soil microbiome to learn how they interact with crops and how they can be harnessed for farmer benefit. “Products to enhance soil or work between the crop and the soil—an interaction that is important for nutrient and water uptake,” he says.
4. A potential generational shift will change the way technology is used on the farm. As millennials and others take leadership positions on farms the way they used technology and their speed of adoption will likely be different than what you’re seeing now, Percy adds.

What changes do you expect to see on your farm? What changes are you already seeing? Let us know in the comments!